Do retainers hurt?

Do retainers hurt?

Cleveland Clinic says some soreness early on is normal, usually from the retainer nudging teeth into place, and that over-the-counter pain relievers can help while you adjust. Teeth should not hurt once you wear the retainer regularly, and it should fit snugly but comfortably. If discomfort continues, your provider may need to adjust it. The page does not say how long early soreness should last, so mention it at your next visit if it worries you.

Why does my retainer hurt?

The most likely reason in the sources is that your teeth have moved. Cleveland Clinic says a retainer that suddenly feels too tight or no longer fits usually means teeth have shifted, and that you should not wait, because the longer you delay the harder it becomes to fit. A broken retainer can also irritate gums or lips. The American Association of Orthodontists says teeth continue to move throughout life even after treatment, and that without retainers they can drift back toward their original positions. See our guides on how long to wear a retainer.

Do retainers push teeth back?

Cleveland Clinic says yes, but only for small, recent shifts, such as after missing wear for a few weeks. A retainer cannot straighten teeth or make major corrections; that job belongs to braces or aligners. It says to expect some discomfort during this process. If the retainer will not go on at all, do not force it; call your orthodontist, who can adjust it or make a new one.

How long do you wear a retainer?

Cleveland Clinic says to wear a retainer full-time, day and night, for at least four to six months, then at night only, long-term. The American Association of Orthodontists says wear typically begins right after active treatment ends and tapers to night-time use as your orthodontist directs, and that many patients wear retainers nightly for life. Fixed retainers stay bonded in place, so there is no nightly removal.

Why does my retainer smell?

Cleveland Clinic says bacteria build up on retainers, just as they do in the mouth, and that daily cleaning prevents it. Healthline says retainers collect bacteria, plaque and tartar while worn, so if they are not cleaned often enough they can smell or taste bad. If it still smells, Cleveland Clinic suggests scrubbing with soap, water and a soft brush, or soaking in a retainer-specific cleanser if your provider approves.

How to clean a retainer

Cleveland Clinic says to clean the retainer daily, to brush and floss your teeth before inserting it, to brush removable retainers with antibacterial soap and water and avoid harsh toothpastes, and for yellowing to use baking soda with a soft brush. Healthline says to rinse it right after removal so debris does not harden, to deep clean daily with lukewarm water and mild dish soap with a soft brush, and to wash the case daily. It says toothpaste is abrasive and can scratch the surface, and that heat from boiling water, microwaves, dishwashers or a hot car can warp the retainer. Fixed retainers need flossing around them, with a floss threader under the wire.

Types of retainer

Cleveland Clinic lists removable retainers, Hawley retainers that combine a wire with plastic or acrylic and Essix retainers that are clear molded plastic, and fixed retainers, where a wire is bonded to the front of the upper or lower teeth and stays in place. Which type you have changes how it feels and how you clean it, so ask your orthodontist to explain yours.

Questions to ask your orthodontist

Take these to your retainer appointment.

• How long should my retainer feel tight when I first wear it?
• How many hours a day should I wear it now, and when can I reduce it?
• What should I do if it no longer fits?
• Which cleanser is safe for my type of retainer?
• Who repairs or replaces it if it breaks?

Frequently asked questions